The Impact of an NIH-Funded Project on Students’ STEM Self-Efficacy, Science Identity, and Career Interest

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 1:45 pm - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Becoming Scientists: Pathways of Identity, Interest, and Belonging

Abstract

The U.S. is experiencing a critical shortage of STEM talent, underscoring the urgent need to engage students from diverse backgrounds. This NIH-funded study evaluated a genomics-based citizen science program that involved underserved high school students in authentic research experiences. Using multivariate structural equation modeling (SEM) with race/ethnicity as a moderator, we examined the program’s impact on STEM self-efficacy, science identity, and career interest. Results demonstrated significant gains across all groups, highlighting the broad effectiveness of the intervention. By enhancing students’ confidence and sense of belonging in STEM, this study contributes to ongoing efforts to diversify the STEM pipeline and reduce disparities in education and career pathways.

Authors

• Sunha Kim, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Weiyi Ding, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Stephen Koury, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Sandra Small, University at Buffalo - SUNY